Villa Eggedal is one of the largest and most luxurious estates around Lake Atitlan. Spectacular is the only word to describe this ten acre walled villa located near the shore in the village of Santa Cruz la Laguna. This Mayan village is only accessible by boat, just a ten-minute ride from Panajachel and you’ll arrive to privacy, luxury, spacious comfort, incredible views of the lake, mountains and volcanoes, and immaculately tended gardens and grounds. Villa Eggedal is located 150 meters from the lake shore, which offers a sandy beach for swimming. A winding, uphill walkway leads to the estate and then through the grounds to the two studio apartments, two houses, and the owners private home with pool. (This property is definitely not suitable to handicapped renters or people with difficulty walking.) Villa Eggedal is owned by a European aristocrat and art collector, and all the rooms are filled with beautiful antiques, paintings, rugs, sculpture, prints, and Mayan and world textiles. Casa Wenche is the most secluded of the Eggedal rentals. This two-bedroom home offers the best views on the estate and its simple luxury and idyllic garden surrounding make it the perfect retreat. Living room, dining area and kitchen are all combined in a spacious common room leading out onto a 32 square meter terrace with one of the most stunning vistas on the lake. The fully equipped kitchen and ample dining space make this an ideal setting for a family or group getaway, and art-filled walls and tasteful decoration abound. This well-appointed house measures 118 square meters (1270 sq ft) and offers space for five in total: one bedroom with a double bed and the other with one bunk bed and one single. The ample stone-walled bathroom is located just off the common room. An outdoor terrace and barbecue area flank the entrance to the house and provide yet another opportunity to enjoy the surrounding garden and majestic views. Small verandas, garden seats, patios, balconies, and shady lawn areas are nestled throughout the estate in a maze of winding garden paths. This is a paradise for birds and bird watchers alike with over 100 species spotted on the property alone. Papayas, avocados, citrus trees and a well-tended vegetable garden with fresh lettuce and herbs are all there for the picking to add some extra flavor to your sunset barbecue. Staff provides housekeeping twice a week, and services like grocery shopping, laundry service and additional house-cleaning can be arranged for an additional charge. Two studio apartments and a 4-bedroom home are also available on the estate, and Villa Eggedal can accommodate up to a total 17 people comfortably and privately. Keywords: Luxury, Lake view, Garden, Bird Watching